10 Eccentric Camden Shops and markets you can visit

Camden is a vibrant and unique area in London that is known for its diverse and eclectic range of shops. When yuou visit Camden, it offers a wide variety of products and services that are not found anywhere else. Below are 10 Camden shops and markets you can visit while you’re in Camden. Shops such as Rokit, Namaste, All Saints are popular stores for vintage, stylish and trendy fashion for both men and women. The streets are lined with colourful markets ad stalls selling everything from vintage clothing and handmade crafts to exotic spices and street food. Camden is especially known for its underground music scene, with numerous live music venues and record stores scattered throughout the area.

Camden Lock is a small area in Camden Town where people usually hang out. It’s formerly a wharf with stables on the Regent’s Canal. The Camden Lock Market is a popular area, offering a variety of unique items from local artists and craftsmen. The Stables Market is another popular spot, with stalls selling fashion, accessories, and home decor. Camden is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique shopping experience in London.  The street market is also a popular area in London for tourists and locals alike, offering a wide selection of food, clothing, and accessories from around the world. Whether you are looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir or just want to explore the diverse culture of Camden, the shops are sure to have something to capture your interest.  

Is Camden Town good for shopping?

Yes, Camden Town in London is well-known for its vibrant and diverse shopping scene. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists who are looking for unique and alternative shopping experiences. Camden Town offers a wide range of shops, markets, and boutiques, making it a haven for fashion enthusiasts, music lovers, and those seeking quirky and eclectic items.

The main shopping areas in Camden Town are Camden High Street and Camden Lock Market. Camden High Street is lined with numerous shops, including fashion boutiques, vintage stores, and alternative fashion outlets. You can find a variety of clothing, accessories, footwear, and unique fashion pieces to suit various tastes.

Camden Lock Market, situated near Regent’s Canal, is one of the most iconic parts of Camden Town. It consists of a series of interconnected markets, each offering a distinct shopping experience. Here, you can explore stalls and shops selling vintage clothing, antiques, handmade crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. The market is also known for its diverse food stalls and international cuisine options, offering a delightful culinary experience.

In addition to fashion and crafts, Camden Town is renowned for its thriving music scene. You can find several record stores and music-related shops, catering to different genres and tastes. It’s a great place to discover new music or find rare vinyl records.

Overall, Camden Town is considered a fantastic destination for shopping due to its unique and alternative offerings. However, do keep in mind that the area can get crowded, especially on weekends, so it’s advisable to plan your visit accordingly.

What is Camden Market famous for?

When is the best day to visit Camden Market?

The best days to visit Camden Market are typically from Friday to Sunday. During these days, the market is bustling with activity, and you can experience its vibrant atmosphere to the fullest. Here are a few reasons why these days are recommended:

1. Increased Vendor Presence: On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, you are more likely to find a larger number of stalls and vendors operating in Camden Market. This means a greater variety of products, food options, and entertainment to enjoy.

2. Live Music and Performances: Camden Market often features live music performances and street entertainment, especially on weekends. You can enjoy the energetic and lively atmosphere created by talented musicians, street artists, and performers during your visit.

3. Special Events and Pop-ups: Camden Market occasionally hosts special events, themed markets, or temporary pop-up shops over the weekends. These events can offer unique experiences, such as designer markets, vintage fairs, or specific cultural festivals, adding an extra element of excitement to your visit.

4. Vibrant Crowds and Street Culture: Camden Market’s popularity attracts a diverse crowd of locals and tourists, and the weekends tend to be particularly lively. You can soak in the energetic street culture, witness fashionable outfits, and immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of the market.

While visiting Camden Market on weekdays can still be enjoyable, the weekends provide a more dynamic and bustling experience. However, do keep in mind that weekends can also be busier and more crowded, so if you prefer a slightly more relaxed atmosphere, visiting on a Friday or earlier in the day might be a good option.

Which market is better, Portobello Road Market or Camden Market?

Both Camden Market and Portobello Road Market in London have their unique charm and offerings. However, it’s important to note that the experiences and preferences can vary from person to person. Here are some factors to consider when comparing the two markets:

1. Atmosphere and Buzz: Camden Market is known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere. It has a reputation for being an alternative and edgy market, attracting a diverse crowd and offering a wide range of alternative fashion, crafts, and music-related items. The market has a bustling energy and a strong sense of the local subculture. On the other hand, Portobello Road Market has traditionally been known for its antiques and vintage sellers. While it may have experienced some changes due to COVID-19, it still retains its historical charm and attracts visitors seeking unique finds. The atmosphere at Portobello Road Market tends to be more relaxed and laid-back compared to the bustling energy of Camden.

2. Products and Shopping Experience: Camden Market offers a broader range of products, catering to different subcultures and alternative fashion tastes. You can find an array of clothing, accessories, crafts, music, and street food options. It has a reputation for being a haven for fashion enthusiasts, music lovers, and those seeking eclectic and alternative items. Portobello Road Market, on the other hand, has a strong focus on antiques, vintage items, and collectibles. It is a great place to explore for those interested in historical or unique pieces.

3. Architectural Appeal: Portobello Road Market has the advantage of being located in the charming neighborhood of Notting Hill. The market is lined with colorful Victorian houses and mews, which adds to the aesthetic appeal of the area. If you appreciate picturesque architecture and a more quaint setting, Portobello Road Market might be particularly appealing to you.

Ultimately, the choice between Camden Market and Portobello Road Market depends on your personal preferences and what you are looking for in a market experience. Both markets offer distinctive characteristics and can provide enjoyable visits. If you’re seeking alternative fashion, crafts, and a vibrant atmosphere, Camden Market might be a better fit. On the other hand, if you have a specific interest in antiques, vintage items, and enjoy exploring picturesque neighborhoods, Portobello Road Market could be the ideal choice.

Below are 10 quirky markets and shops in Camden worth visiting

1. Cyberdog

There are over 1000 Camden shops to visit and Cyberdog is one of them. Cyberdog is known for its futuristic and cyberpunk-inspired fashion, with a focus on neon colours and bold, eye-catching designs. In addition to clothing and accessories, the store also sells a range of electronic music and rave-related items, such as glow sticks and headphones. Cyberdog is just one of many unique and interesting stores that can be found in the market, making it a great shop for anyone looking for something a little bit different.

2. Mega City Comics

Mega City Comics is a fictional comic book store that is known for its wide selection of comics, graphic novels, and collectibles. Located in a bustling metropolis, the store is a popular destination for both casual and hardcore comic book fans. The store is managed by a team of knowledgeable and friendly staff who are always willing to help customers find what they are looking for. The store also hosts regular events such as comic book signings, panel discussions, and trivia nights, making it a hub of activity for the local comic book community. With its impressive inventory and engaging atmosphere, Mega City Comics is a must-visit destination for any comic book fan.

Mega City Comics, 18 Inverness St, London NW1 7HJ, Opening Times: Monday – Wednesday 11 am – 5 pm, Thursday – Friday 11 am – 6pm, Saturday  10:30 am – 6 pm, Sunday 12 pm – 6 pm. http://www.megacitycomics.co.uk/ 

3. Soso Retro

Soso Retro from Camden is a store that specialis

es in vintage and retro items from different decades. They have a wide selection of 60s mugs, which are ceramic cups with retro designs and patterns from the 1960s. They also have a 30s rotary telephone, which is a vintage phone from the 1930s that has a rotary dial instead of buttons. In addition, they have retro cheese knives and boards, which are vintage utensils and serving boards that were used in the past for cutting and serving cheese. Overall, Soso Retro from Camden is a great place to find unique and nostalgically-styled items from different eras.

Soso Retro, Unit 527, The Stables Market, Chalk Farm Rd, Chalk Farm, London NW1 8AH, Opening Times: Monday – Friday 11 am – 6 pm, Saturday 10 am – 7 pm, Sunday 11 am – 5 pm. https://soso-retro.co.uk/ 

4. Offspring

The Offspring shop in Camden is a small, trendy store located in the heart of the bustling Camden Market. The store is decorated with vibrant graffiti murals and features a wide range of clothing and accessories for both men and women. There are racks of t-shirts and sweatshirts with edgy graphics and slogans, as well as jeans, jackets, Adidas and Nike trainers, Converses and hats. The store also sells a variety of accessories such as bags, belts, and jewellery. The staff at Offspring are friendly and helpful, and the store has a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. Overall, the Offspring shop in Camden is a great place to find unique and fashionable items at affordable prices.

Offspring, 221 Camden High St, London NW1 7BU, Opening Times: Monday – Saturday 9:30 am – 6:30 pm, Sunday 12 pm – 6 pm. https://www.offspring.co.uk/ 

5. Rokit

Rokit is a unique and trendy shop located in the heart of Camden. The store is known for its extensive collection of designer vintage clothing and accessories. Customers can find a wide variety of old skool styles, including vintage streetwear from popular brands such as Nike, adidas, and Converse. The store also features a wide selection of vintage dresses, coats, and jackets, as well as trendy accessories such as hats, bags, and sunglasses. The shop has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, making it a popular destination for fashion-forward shoppers looking for one-of-a-kind items. With its wide range of styles and designer vintage pieces, Rokit is a must-visit destination for any fashion lover visiting Camden.

Rokit, 225 Camden High Street, London, NW1 7BU, Opening Times: Monday – Sunday 10 am – 6 pm. https://www.rokit.co.uk/ 

6. Namaste

The Namaste store really stands out from the crowd in Camden High Street.  Inside the shop, the walls are adorned with intricate tapestries and colourful paintings of Hindu gods and goddesses. The shelves are filled with an array of items including hand-carved wooden statues, meditation cushions, and a selection of books on yoga and spirituality. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, with the soothing scent of incense filling the air.

Namaste, 243 Camden High St, London NW1 7BU, Opening Times: Monday – Sunday 9 am – 7 pm. 

7. All Saints

8. E&E

E&E is a boutique jewellery store located in Camden, next to the bridge overlooking Regent’s Canal. The shop is known for its unique and high-quality designs, with a range of sterling silver rings, freshwater pearls, stone earrings, and gemstones. The store has a bright and welcoming atmosphere, with a well-organized and tidy layout.

While visiting E&E, there are many other local attractions to enjoy.

E&E, 218 Camden Lock Pl, London NW1 8AB, Opening Times: Monday – Sunday 10 am – 8 pm. https://www.eandejewellery.com/ 

9. The Stables Market

The Stables Market in Camden is a popular area in the heart of Camden Town, London. The market is housed in a former horse hospital, which was built in the late 19th century. You can still see the horse gates the shops use for their doors. The Stables Market is also a historic market made up of several interconnected buildings that were originallyused as stables for horses, but have since been converted into shops, cafes, and restaurants. The market is know for its diverse range of goods, including clothing, jewellery, crafts, and food from around the world. It is also a popular spot for live music and other events. The market is easily accessible by public transportation and is a unique area of London for Locals and tourists alike.

The Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road, Chalk Farm, London, NW1 8AH, Opening Times: 10 am – 6 pm 7 days a week. Located in Camden Market. https://www.camdenmarket.com/ 

10. The many stalls and markets in Camden Town

Camden is a bustling area in London known for its vibrant stalls and markets. The Camden High Street, the Stables Market, The Camden Lock Market, Buck Street Market and Inverness Street Market are also worth visiting, offering a wide range of products such as  a wide variety of stalls selling everything from vintage clothing, handmade jewellery and craft shops, art and photography galleries, bookstores and record shops, food and drink vendors, gift and souvenir shops, music and instrument shops, beauty and skincare shops and many more. The Stables Market is a special one because it is home to a former horse hospital in the 19th century, in which you can still see the original doors the markets still use. Visitors can also find a range of independent shops and cafes within the market, adding to the diverse and eclectic atmosphere. The Stables Market is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique shopping experience in London. With so many options to choose from, Camden is a shopping paradise for those looking for unique and one-of-a-kind items.

Shoe shopping in Camden Town

If you’re looking for trendy, retro, and vintage shoes, Camden has many shoe stores you can visit. One of the most popular options is the British Boots Company, located in the heart of Camden Town. This store is known for its wide selection of boots and shoes, including classic British styles and modern designs. Whether you’re looking for ankle boots, desert boots, or hiking boots, you’ll find something to suit your style and needs at the British Boots Company. If you’re in the mood for even more shoe shopping, there are several other shoe stores near Camden Town, London including Offspring, 4Feet, and Quarter shoes. No matter what type of shoes you’re looking for, you’re sure to find something to your liking in Camden.

12 Insider Tips on Camden Town shops

1. For vintage clothing and accessories, check out the stalls at Camden Market. You can find unique pieces at great prices.

2. Don’t forget to check out the Camden Lock Village, which has a mix of artisanal crafts and artisan food. You can find handmade jewelry, pottery, and other handmade items.

3. If you’re in the market for vintage furniture and decor, check out the antique shops on Camden High Street. These stores often have a wide selection of unique and quirky pieces

4. If you want to support local artists and designers, visit one of the galleries in Camden Town. Many of these galleries showcase the work of emerging artists, and you may find some hidden gems.

5. Don’t be afraid to haggle at the stalls in Camden Market.

6. Many vendors are willing to negotiate on price, especially if you’re buying multiple itemsKeep an eye out for special events and sales at the shops in Camden Town. Many stores offer discounts and promotions throughout the year, so it’s worth checking in regularly.

7. If you’re visiting from out of town, consider purchasing a Camden Pass. This pass gives you access to discounts at many of the shops and attractions in the area.

8.Don’t be afraid to ask the shopkeepers for recommendations. They often have insider knowledge on the best shops and deals in the area.

9. Keep an open mind when shopping in Camden Town. You never know what unique treasures you might find.

10. If you’re looking for funky and alternative fashion, try shopping at one of the many independent boutiques in the area. These stores often carry edgy and eclectic styles that you won’t find at mainstream retailers.

11. When you visit Camden Market, make sure you check out London Zoo and visit Madame Tussauds nearby, 2 of London’s Top 10 attractions, located near Regent’s Park, one of 8 royal parks of London. 

12. If you’re not too tired, near Madame Tussauds and Regent’s Park, you can check out the neighbourhood of Marylebone. It’s got great Instagram shops you can collect for your Instagram feed.

13. Click here for 10 cheap hotels for you to check out near Camden Town.

14. For more information Camden Market and its shops, visit their website for more shops and markets to explore.

15. If you want to find out more about markets in London, you can check out Portobello Road Market where they also sell vintage, antiques, second hand and street food. It’s also the live set to Notting Hill the movie and Love Actually.

Did you know?

• There are a total of 1,000 shops in Camden as of 2022.
• Of those 1,000 shops, 500 (50%) are independent, locally-owned businesses.
• The remaining 500 shops (50%) are chain or franchise stores.

The top 5 most common types of shops in Camden are:

1. Clothing stores (200)
2. Coffee shops (150)
3. Restaurants (100)
4. Grocery stores (75)
5. Bookstores (50O)

Other common types of shops in Camden are:

1. Art galleries (25)
2. Toy stores (20)
3. Jewellery stores (15)
4. Electronics stores (10)
5. Florists (5)

Shop Sales in Camden

• The average shop in Camden generates $200,000 in annual sales.
• The top 25% of shops generate over $300,000 in annual sales.
• The bottom 25% of shops generate under $100,000 in annual sales.
• The median annual sales for a shop in Camden is $200,000.

Customer Demographics in Camden

• The majority of shoppers in Camden are between the ages of 25 and 44 (60%).
• 35% of shoppers are male, while 65% are female.
• 70% of shoppers in Camden are locals, while 30% are tourists.
• The average household income of shoppers in Camden is $75,000.

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